Report: Scott Skiles Is The Frontrunner For Magic’s Coaching Job

Skiles, who handed out an NBA record 30 assists as a member of the Magic in 1990, most recently coached five seasons with the Bucks. He reportedly clashed with current Magic forward Tobias Harris in Milwaukee, who will hit restricted free agency this summer.

The Magic have also expressed interest in Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau, but Orlando reportedly doesn’t want to offer a draft pick to acquire him.

Scott Skiles has emerged as the strong frontrunner to become head coach of the Orlando Magic, league sources told Yahoo Sports.

Magic general manager Rob Hennigan has discussed the opening with several possible candidates, but Skiles has clearly separated himself in the process, league sources told Yahoo Sports.

Although Orlando has thus far shown no inclination to rush into a hiring, discussions could soon advance into contract negotiations, league sources said.

Skiles, 51, has been the preferred choice of Orlando ownership, which has been fond of him since his playing days with the Magic in the 1990s. Skiles fits the candidate profile that Hennigan privately outlined for the coaching search: a successful head-coaching résumé that includes strong emphasis on upgrading Orlando’s defense and accountability.